Ubuntu Server on an Old Lenovo Laptop

Ubuntu Server is a specialized version of the Ubuntu operating system, tailored for servers and data centers. Unlike its desktop counterpart, it doesn’t have a GUI by default, making it lightweight and ideal for server tasks.

Recently, I installed Ubuntu Server on my old LenovoG575 laptop.

Setup Process

1. Download Ubuntu Server ISO: Download the latest Ubuntu Server ISO file from the official Ubuntu website.

2. Create a Bootable USB Drive: I’ve used Etcher to create a bootable USB drive with the Ubuntu Server ISO.

3. Boot from the USB Drive: Insert the bootable USB into your laptop and boot from it.

4. Install Ubuntu Server: Follow the straightforward installation process:

   • Choose your language and keyboard layout.
   • Configure your network settings, select the installation drive, and set up the storage configuration.
   • Create a user account and set a password.
   • Select the software you want to install (I’ve chosen OpenSSH server for remote access).
   • Review your choices and start the installation process.

Post-Installation Setup

After installation, update and upgrade the system:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

You can access your server using this command

sftp [email protected] 

Replace the IP address with your server’s IP.

• Access through File Manager: You can also access the server through a file manager for easier navigation. If you’re on a Linux, this will be free and straightforward. On macOS and windows, you need third-party software for this.

• Terminal Access: Alternatively, you can access the server and perform necessary operations directly through the terminal.

Basic SFTP commands

put <file>        # Upload files to the server
put -r <folder>   # Upload an entire folder (first create a folder with the same name on the server)
get <file>        # Download files from the server
bye               # Exit from the server

plex

Plex is a popular media server and client application that allows users to centralize their media content on a server and access it from various devices both locally and remotely.

Remote Access:

• Allows you to access your media library from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Securely share your media library with friends and family.

I successfully set up our Plex media server, which is accessible via http://192.168.0.118: 32400/web. However, I encountered some configuration challenges and decided to postpone the final setup. I can still access my local server through a VPN, so I plan to revisit and complete the Plex configuration at a later time.